The American saxophonist Marcus Strickland is one of the pioneers of jazz musicians who experiment with popular (black) music styles such as hip hop and R&B. In the case of People Of The Sun that results in a remarkably inaccessible and swing-less album. It is dominated by compelling vocal songs - sung, rapped and performed - which often reflect on African American history and problems. These
… are accompanied by restless and hectic jazz and R&B with contrary rhythms. Sporadic pieces in which no voices can be heard are also a relief. Such as the steamy Relentlessness in which the band can go loose and there is extensive soldering. Perhaps Strickland should let go of those well thought-out and committed concepts more often and just start blowing it up. (MR)more
